Statue of Tvardovsky and Terkin, Bronze monument in Victory Square, Smolensk, Russia.
The Statue of Tvardovsky and Terkin depicts a poet and his literary creation sitting side by side on a bench, as if they have just settled down for a conversation. The writer and his fictional character appear lifelike and approachable in this bronze rendering, with realistic details that convey their mutual affection.
The monument was unveiled in 1995 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory at the end of World War II. It was funded through public donations from citizens who wished to preserve this wartime memory.
The monument shows the bond between the poet and his creation Terkin, who became a symbol of Soviet resilience during wartime. The two figures sit together as if sharing the story that shaped their shared legacy.
The monument stands on Victory Square in central Smolensk and is easy to find as a well-known meeting spot in the city. It is accessible year-round and can be viewed from outside without any special arrangements needed.
The sculpture makes a rare artistic choice by depicting a real writer alongside his invented character rather than honoring only one of them. Notably, Terkin holds an accordion in his hands, an instrument that holds significance in the poet's works.
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